News|TechnologyRussia bans WhatsApp, pushes state-backed alternativeRights campaigners say restrictions on messaging apps are a transparent attempt to ramp up control and surveillance.
Russia has restricted access to the messaging service WhatsApp, citing compliance issues with national legal requirements. This action aligns with a broader strategy to encourage the use of state-backed communication platforms.
Russia has restricted access to the messaging service WhatsApp, citing compliance issues with national legal requirements. This action aligns with a broader strategy to encourage the use of state-backed communication platforms.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that the decision was due to WhatsApp's non-compliance with Russian law. Users are being advised to transition to MAX, a state-supported platform that combines messaging, government services, and payment functionalities.
MAX reportedly does not utilize end-to-end encryption, potentially exposing user data to state monitoring. This raises concerns about user privacy, as data may be shared with authorities upon request.
Russia has restricted access to the messaging service WhatsApp, citing compliance issues with national legal requirements.
Last year, Russia imposed limitations on WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta, and on Telegram, based on non-cooperation with law enforcement inquiries related to fraud and terrorism. The Russian government has also restricted access to other social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and has limited services such as YouTube and Apple's FaceTime.
Roskomnadzor, the state communications regulator, announced forthcoming restrictions on Telegram, citing its failure to comply with legal requirements. Many Russian users have resorted to using virtual private networks (VPNs) to access WhatsApp.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.